In Atlanta, Chris Sale made a strong impression in his spring training debut, pitching two scoreless innings with three strikeouts. While the Braves fell 8-1 to the Twins, the focus was on player performances as the season approaches.
The Braves showcased what looks to be their Opening Day lineup, including stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., who delivered a 397-foot single off the bat at 112.4 mph. Despite the humid conditions keeping it in the park, Acuña's return to the leadoff spot is promising, given his impressive 1.012 OPS in 2023.
Drake Baldwin, stepping in as the primary catcher, went 2-for-2 with a 406-foot homer. With Jonah Heim backing him up until Sean Murphy returns, Baldwin might become a regular in the second spot of the lineup.
Manager Walt Weiss is keeping an open mind about lineup construction, emphasizing the importance of flexibility as the season unfolds.
Top prospect JR Ritchie also made waves with two scoreless innings. Although not slated for the Opening Day rotation, Ritchie is the Braves' most MLB-ready prospect, set to join promising young arms like Spencer Schwellenbach and AJ Smith-Shawver in the future.
The Braves' rotation is expected to feature Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo López, Grant Holmes, and either Bryce Elder or Joey Wentz. Injuries could open the door for Ritchie's promotion.
Next up, the Braves face the Orioles, with Garrett Baumann taking the mound. Fans can catch 15 Braves games this spring across the Southeast, with details available at BravesOnGray.com.